Storm Dave due to hit northern UK with high winds over Easter weekend

Storm Dave is due to hit parts of the UK over the Easter weekend, bringing gale-force winds as millions travel for the holiday.

The Met Office has issued yellow severe weather warnings for wind covering the whole of mainland Scotland, Northern Ireland, parts of northern England and North Wales from Saturday evening into Sunday.

Northern Scotland will also experience heavy rain and snowy conditions on higher ground, with a separate weather warning in place for rain and snow from Saturday afternoon.

Those travelling during the warning period have been told there could be disruption on the roads as well as on rail, air and ferry services.

There could also be dangerous conditions from large waves along the coastline as well as gusts of up to 90mph in exposed areas.

Storm Dave will hit hardest on Saturday evening, before beginning to weaken on Sunday as it moves into the North Sea.

The Met Office’s forecast said: “A rapidly deepening area of low pressure, Storm Dave, will cross Scotland on Saturday night before clearing into the North Sea on Sunday.

“Whilst some uncertainty remains in the exact track and shape of Storm Dave, a spell of strong south-westerly winds is expected.

“Gusts of 50-60mph are expected fairly widely with 60-70mph in more exposed locations.

“The strongest winds are expected during Saturday evening where there is a small chance of gusts of 70-80mph briefly, particularly northern England and southern Scotland.

“Large waves may lead to some dangerous conditions around windward coasts.”

The Met Office also warned some areas could experience power cuts, while warning “injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible”.

Earlier, the RAC predicted it would be the busiest Easter on the roads since 2022.

Travel trade organisation Abta has also estimated that two million people from the UK will travel abroad between Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Those driving in Scotland have been urged to check their journeys before setting off.

George Fiddes, from Transport Scotland, said: “Storm Dave is a timely reminder that we can face challenging weather conditions at any time of year, not just during the winter period.

“The Met Office warnings show high winds will impact the whole country this weekend, with the prospect of some areas also being affected by heavy rain and snow, so I’m urging people to plan ahead if they are travelling over the Easter period.

“Motorists should check their planned routes before setting off.”

Police in Scotland urged HGV and bus drivers to use “extreme caution” when Storm Dave hits at the weekend.

Network Rail Scotland said the worst affected lines would be on the Ayrshire coast, the East Coast Main Line and in the north-east.